Vyahulla Festival | The Marriage Ceremony

Vyahulla

Celebrations:

According to Narada Pancharatra (it is one of the two oldest scriptures of Vaishanav literature, the other being Srimadbhagwat according to Asiatic Society of Bengal). Nityotsava (Daily celebrations), Nitya Saukhyo (Daily pleasure), Nitya Sri (Daily prosperity), Nitya Mang-alsh (Daily blessed). Yet at Sri Radhavallabh Temple, people celebrate and rejoice service the Lord not only daily, grand occasions, annual festivals, but also on fulfillment of their cherished desire, e.g. marriage of son or daughter, birth of a child, construct in of new house, promotion, acquisition of new vehicle, conferment of some honor, starting new business of profit therein, victory in some court case etc.

Decorations and bhog:
This is known as “ MANORATHA” – a wish celebrated by offerings “Mangal”, a (singing of praise of Sri Hit Harivansh Mahaprabhu and Sri Radhavallabhlal). Marriage Ceremony of the Lord is a time-consuming event and draws hundreds of devotees from different places. The temple is well decorated, inside and outside, special feast of the Lord, His garbs, Ornaments, curtains etc. are being prepared, and colorful electric and bright bulbs illuminate temple premises. Bands are in attendance, fireworks displayed, plantain trunks, various kinds of leaves and flowers, new pitchers with mango leaves and green coconut placed by the side of an special throne under a well decorated canopy in Jag Mohan (raised platform) on which the Deity comes out at the time of the ceremony to bless the devotees who celebrate the occasion for the pleasure and recreation of the Lord. Temple Musicians narrate special verses composed only to celebrate the festivity, whereas the Goswamis the holy priest under the direction and supervision of Teekayat Adhikari the chief priest perform various services and rituals connected with the occasion.